The Contingency Theory and Government’s Critical Initiatives in Resolving the Developmental Problems in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

This paper attempts to examine the philosophy and import of the contingency theory with a view to adopting it to explain the various developmental initiatives by successive governments in the Niger Delta Region. It adopts the descriptive and analytic approach in arriving at the fact that contingency theory is still contemporary, but requires a detail understanding of the situation under which is such decisions must be taken. The paper culminated in the setting up of various interventional agencies. But these agencies have not adequately addressed the developmental need of the region, because, the leaders did not perfectly understand the situation or the environment. The paper recommend among other things, that apart from understanding the situation or the environment, a genuine political goodwill is required to coast home the utility of the contingency approach to policy making and development.

Keywords: Theory, Contingency, Government, Initiatives, Development, Niger Delta Region